And pierce the deep wood’s woven shade,
And dance upon the level shore?
Young man, lift up your russet brow,
And lift your tender eyelids, maid,
And brood on hopes and fear no more.
And no more turn aside and brood
Upon love’s bitter mystery;
For Fergus rules the brazen cars,
And rules the shadows of the wood,
And the white breast of the dim sea
And all dishevelled wandering stars.
Poem Analysis:
William Butler Yeats, a seminal figure in Irish literature and a driving force in the Irish Literary Revival, crafted poetry that often blended mysticism, myth, and the complexities of human emotion. "Who Goes With Fergus?" is one such poem, drawing upon mythical themes and timeless questions of human existence. Let's delve into an analysis of this evocative work:
Mythical Allusions: Yeats frequently drew from Irish mythology and folklore, and "Who Goes With Fergus?" is no exception. Fergus, a legendary figure from Irish mythology, is associated with strength, leadership, and a connection to the mystical realm. In the poem, he symbolizes an archetype of power and authority.
Invocation and Invitation: The poem begins with an invocation, a call to accompany Fergus on a journey through the natural world. It invites the young, both men and women, to join Fergus on this mystical adventure, transcending the mundane and embracing the wonders of nature.
Symbolism of Nature: Nature serves as a backdrop for the journey, depicted as both enchanting and boundless. The "deep wood's woven shade" and the "level shore" symbolize the mysteries and experiences of life. The sea and stars evoke a sense of vastness and cosmic wonder, hinting at the profound mysteries of existence.
Themes of Liberation and Exploration: The poem encourages liberation from mundane concerns and an embrace of life's possibilities. It urges the young to cast aside worries and fears, to dance freely, and to contemplate their hopes without restraint. Fergus represents a guide to this liberation, offering a path beyond the confines of ordinary existence.
Exploration of Love's Mysteries: Yeats explores the enigmatic nature of love and its impact on the human experience. He suggests that dwelling on the mysteries of love can be futile, as Fergus reigns over both love's joys and its sorrows. Love, like nature itself, is depicted as both beautiful and unpredictable.
The Power of Fergus: Fergus is portrayed as a commanding figure who governs various aspects of the natural world, from the land to the sea to the stars. His authority extends to the realms of both the tangible and the ethereal, emphasizing his symbolic significance as a mythic figure.
Imagery and Symbolism: Yeats employs vivid imagery and symbolic language throughout the poem. The "russet brow" and "tender eyelids" evoke images of youth and innocence, while phrases like "brazen cars" and "wandering stars" conjure notions of power and cosmic movement.
Musicality and Rhythm: Like much of Yeats's poetry, "Who Goes With Fergus?" exhibits a musical quality, with its rhythmic cadence and lyrical language inviting readers into a dreamlike state. The poem's structure and meter contribute to its enchanting allure.
In summary, "Who Goes With Fergus?" encapsulates many of the thematic and stylistic elements that define Yeats's poetry. It invites readers on a journey of exploration, liberation, and contemplation, weaving together themes of mythology, nature, and the mysteries of love. Through its evocative imagery and timeless wisdom, the poem resonates as a testament to the enduring power of poetic expression.